The Los Angeles Chargers surprised a few people when they resisted drafting a wide receiver with their first round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. After losing Keenan Allen to the Chicago Bears for a fourth-round draft pick, and releasing veteran Mike Williams, many analysts expected the organization to address the issue during the draft. Instead, the Chargers selected Notre Dame’s tackle Joe Alt with the fifth overall pick to solidify their offensive line.
Los Angeles did go on to draft Ladd McConkey with the No. 24 overall pick and added Brenden Rice (son for Hall of Fame receiver Jerry Rice) to add some depth to the receiving corp, but it appears as if 22-year-old Quentin Johnston will tasked with taking on a greater role in 2024.
During a recent episode of Up and Adams with Kay Adams, general manager Joe Hortiz was asked about Johnston’s skillset and the role envisions for the young receiver.
“When you look at him, when he was coming out of college, he was an elite size/speed athlete. And you saw some rawness to his game, but you also saw the ability,” said Hortiz. “We believe in it. He’s a great kid, he’s a great worker. Everyone here has a high opinion of him. I believe he’s really going to launch. I really do. His skill set is great.”
Is QUENTIN JOHNSTON ready to be the WR1 for the #chargers??
We asked GM Joe Hortiz…⚡️🔊@heykayadams #BoltUp pic.twitter.com/iNWbOSfHqG
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) May 15, 2024
New head coach Jim Harbaugh will have star quarterback Justin Herbert returns for his fifth season, but will have a new-look offense with running back Austin Ekeler also moving on with the Washington Commanders.
Johnston finished with 2023 season with 431 yards off 38 receptions and 2 touchdowns. He was be asked to be a bigger role in 2024 as the Chargers turn to a your receiving group in Harbaugh’s first year.
